1996 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2000 Saturn SC
To start off, 2000 Saturn SC is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 100 more horse power than 2000 Saturn SC. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2000 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 432 kg more than 2000 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Saturn SC, 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Saturn SC. (154 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Saturn SC. 2000 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Pontiac Firebird | 2000 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saturn |
| Model | Firebird | SC |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
