1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2011 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 556 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2011 Volkswagen Routan 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. 2011 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2011 Volkswagen Routan | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Routan |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3353 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6350 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 352 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1528 kg | 2084 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5144 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1953 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3078 mm |