1996 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 305 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. 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 Opel Vectra, 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 (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Opel Vectra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Vectra | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |