2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,698 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 571 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Proton 400, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Firebird | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Proton |
| Model | Firebird | 400 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5698 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1541 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
