1995 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1995 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1995 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 848 kg more than 1995 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Fiat Panda, 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Fiat Panda | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Panda | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 147 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2570 mm |
