1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 BMW 330
To start off, 2012 BMW 330 is newer by 15 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 46 more horse power than 2012 BMW 330. (256 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 330.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 BMW 330 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 BMW 330 | |
Make | Pontiac | BMW |
Model | Firebird | 330 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5669 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 453 Nm | 540 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1384 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 57 L |