1999 Kia Rio vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Kia Rio 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 228 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 655 kg more than 1999 Kia Rio. 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, 1999 Kia Rio, 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 (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Kia Rio | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Kia | Pontiac |
Model | Rio | Firebird |
Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1343 cc | 5669 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 453 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2570 mm |