2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 423 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (186 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | A | Firebird |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 95 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |