2003 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
