2002 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Fiat Barchetta.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Fiat Barchetta | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Barchetta | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2580 mm |
