1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1986 Buick Century
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1986 Buick Century. (150 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Century.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Buick Century, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Century. (270 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Century. 1986 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 1986 Buick Century | |
| Make | Pontiac | Buick |
| Model | Firebird | Century |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1364 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2662 mm |
