1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 14 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, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 80 kg more than 2011 Audi A3.
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, 2011 Audi A3, 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Audi |
| Model | Firebird | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
