1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1988 Subaru XT
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Subaru XT would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1988 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1988 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 420 kg more than 1988 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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 (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 1988 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Pontiac | Subaru |
| Model | Firebird | XT |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5669 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
