1997 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1986 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (140 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1986 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 1986 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1986 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Prix | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
