1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (147 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 122 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1998 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Malibu | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 147 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |