1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 105 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
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 Volvo S40, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Pontiac | Volvo |
Model | Firebird | S40 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3785 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 198 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |