1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1994 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen Polo. (75 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 1994 Volkswagen Polo, 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen Polo. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 1994 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
