1996 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Pontiac Firebird | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3353 cc | 3189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |