1999 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Pontiac Firebird | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Passat |
Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1779 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 125 HP |
Torque | 305 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |