1999 GMC Sonoma vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 GMC Sonoma is newer by 2 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 GMC Sonoma (177 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 GMC Sonoma should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 28 kg more than 1999 GMC Sonoma.
Because 1999 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 GMC Sonoma will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 GMC Sonoma (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 1999 GMC Sonoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 GMC Sonoma | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonoma | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2570 mm |
