1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2005 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2005 Toyota Matrix 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Matrix. (123 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 183 kg more than 2005 Toyota Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Toyota Matrix 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, 2005 Toyota Matrix 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Matrix. (161 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2005 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Pontiac | Toyota |
| Model | Firebird | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3353 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1528 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
