2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (185 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 93 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
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 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 166 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
