1997 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 5,698 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1997 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 356 kg more than 1997 Opel Vectra. 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 Opel Vectra, 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 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Vectra. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Vectra | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Vectra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
