1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 8 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 42 more horse power than 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix. (260 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 40 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, 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix. (380 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5669 cc | 3786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 64 L |
