1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Cavalier | Firebird |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2189 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 183 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 58 L |