2003 Pontiac G6 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Pontiac G6 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac G6 (286 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac G6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 4 kg more than 2003 Pontiac G6.
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 Pontiac G6, 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 Pontiac G6 (369 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm). This means 2003 Pontiac G6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2003 Pontiac G6 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 Pontiac G6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Pontiac G6 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | G6 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1501 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
