1989 Buick Electra vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1989 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 95 kg more than 1989 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Buick Electra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Electra. (285 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Electra. 1989 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Buick Electra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Buick | Pontiac |
Model | Electra | Firebird |
Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5747 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 454 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2810 mm |