1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 408 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1998 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1998 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | A | Firebird |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 147 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |