1999 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2010 Scion tC
To start off, 2010 Scion tC is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird 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 39 more horse power than 2010 Scion tC. (161 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2010 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 222 kg more than 2010 Scion tC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Scion tC, 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Scion tC. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Scion tC. 2010 Scion tC has automatic transmission and 1999 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1999 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Scion tC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Pontiac Firebird | 2010 Scion tC | |
| Make | Pontiac | Scion |
| Model | Firebird | tC |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
