1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 1 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 140 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 470 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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 (454 Nm) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (193 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Citroen | Pontiac |
| Model | Xsara | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2810 mm |
