1999 Honda Z vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Honda Z 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 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1999 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 620 kg more than 1999 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Honda Z 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 Honda Z 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Z. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Z | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Honda | Pontiac |
| Model | Z | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 54 L |
