1997 BMW M3 vs. 2000 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2000 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2000 Pontiac Firebird. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 47 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Pontiac Firebird. (203 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2000 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
