2003 Kia Sorento vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Kia Sorento 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 113 more horse power than 2003 Kia Sorento. (192 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Sorento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Sorento weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2003 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Sorento will offer significantly more control. 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 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Sorento. (310 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Sorento. 2003 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Sorento | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Sorento | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3489 cc | 5747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
