1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 415 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
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 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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 (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5669 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
