1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2010 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2010 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 13 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 172 more horse power than 2010 Pontiac Vibe. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2010 Pontiac Vibe.
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, 2010 Pontiac Vibe, 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 325 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Pontiac Vibe. (128 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Pontiac Vibe. 2010 Pontiac Vibe has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2010 Pontiac Vibe | |
Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
Model | Firebird | Vibe |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5669 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 453 Nm | 128 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 49 L |