2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 294 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Pontiac Firebird | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Golf |
Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5665 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 325 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 475 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1541 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |