2002 Honda Civic vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Honda Civic 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 73 more horse power than 2002 Honda Civic. (127 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 388 kg more than 2002 Honda Civic. 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 Honda Civic, 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 (305 Nm) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Civic. (153 Nm). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Civic | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Honda | Pontiac |
| Model | Civic | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1667 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 58 L |
