1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2000 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2000 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 2,391 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 114 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (203 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (166 Nm). This means 2000 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 1996 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2000 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 2000 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 2000 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Hyundai | Pontiac |
| Model | Elantra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2570 mm |
