2003 Pontiac Vibe vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Vibe.
Because 2003 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Pontiac Vibe | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Vibe | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
