2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2000 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,784 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 190 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2000 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2000 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 156 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3784 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
