1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1987 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 1987 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
