2001 GMC Sonoma vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 GMC Sonoma is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 82 more horse power than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 GMC Sonoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 32 kg more than 2001 GMC Sonoma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 GMC Sonoma will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 GMC Sonoma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 GMC Sonoma | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonoma | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2194 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 58 L |
