2000 Nissan Maxima vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2000 Nissan Maxima 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, 2000 Nissan Maxima (222 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2000 Nissan Maxima, 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 (305 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Nissan Maxima. (292 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Nissan Maxima | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
Model | Maxima | Firebird |
Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2952 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 222 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 292 Nm | 305 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |