1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 Citroen C3

To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2012 Citroen C3. (118 HP @ 5660 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 140 kg more than 2012 Citroen C3. 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, 2012 Citroen C3, 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 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Citroen C3. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Citroen C3.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Pontiac Firebird 2012 Citroen C3
Make Pontiac Citroen
Model Firebird C3
Year Released 1997 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3785 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 198 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5660 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.4:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1365 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4080 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1640 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 58 L 50 L