2001 Pontiac Vibe vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 298 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Vibe, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Pontiac Vibe | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
Model | Vibe | Firebird |
Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 122 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |