1998 Buick Signia vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick Signia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Signia would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 200 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia, 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. 1998 Buick Signia has automatic transmission and 1999 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1999 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Signia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Buick Signia | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Buick | Pontiac |
Model | Signia | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 387 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2570 mm |