2003 Acura TL vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Acura TL 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2003 Acura TL. (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 92 kg more than 2003 Acura TL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 TL, 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 (454 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura TL. (294 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura TL. 2003 Acura TL 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 TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura TL | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Acura | Pontiac |
| Model | TL | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 5747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2810 mm |
