2000 BMW 323 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2000 BMW 323 is newer by 3 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2000 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 75 kg more than 2000 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (305 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 323. (245 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 323. 2000 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 323 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
