1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 6 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (90 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 205 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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 (454 Nm) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (185 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Firebird | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5747 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 454 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
