2001 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 101 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2002 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 318 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
