1999 Honda Civic vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Honda Civic is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Honda Civic (160 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda Civic, 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Civic. (152 Nm). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Civic | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Honda | Pontiac |
| Model | Civic | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1000 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
