2003 MG TF vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 MG TF is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 MG TF. (114 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 MG TF. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 358 kg more than 2003 MG TF. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MG TF. (145 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MG TF.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MG TF | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | MG | Pontiac |
| Model | TF | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2570 mm |
