1996 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 16 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 783 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (413 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2012 GMC Sierra 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. 2012 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
Make | Pontiac | GMC |
Model | Firebird | Sierra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3353 cc | 4800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 413 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1528 kg | 2311 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5847 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2032 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1875 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3645 mm |