2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 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 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 7 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2147 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |