1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 BMW X3. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (454 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW X3. (406 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW X3. 2012 BMW X3 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. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Pontiac | BMW |
| Model | Firebird | X3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5747 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 454 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2810 mm |
