1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2002 SsangYong Musso
To start off, 2002 SsangYong Musso is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 SsangYong Musso (217 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 SsangYong Musso should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 SsangYong Musso weights approximately 366 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 SsangYong Musso 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, 2002 SsangYong Musso 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, both vehicles can yield 305 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 SsangYong Musso 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. 2002 SsangYong Musso will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2002 SsangYong Musso | |
| Make | Pontiac | SsangYong |
| Model | Firebird | Musso |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 73 L |
