2003 Acura RSX vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 15 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, 2003 Acura RSX (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2003 Acura RSX, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (192 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Acura | Pontiac |
| Model | RSX | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 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 | 4380 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
