2002 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 6 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (257 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. (149 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 83 kg more than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. 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, 2002 Chrysler Sebring, 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 (420 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler Sebring.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler Sebring | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | Sebring | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
