2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 347 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | S | Firebird |
Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2570 mm |