1996 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 440 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. 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, 1996 Audi A3, 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 (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Audi | Pontiac |
Model | A3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5669 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 453 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 99 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |