1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 191 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (305 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3785 cc | 1982 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 198 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 172 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4190 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |