1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 5,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (143 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 2001 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 156 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
