2003 Acura CL vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 6 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 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2003 Acura CL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura CL.
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, 2003 Acura CL, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura CL. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Acura CL | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Acura | Pontiac |
Model | CL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3210 cc | 5669 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 453 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 99 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |