2004 Acura TL vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Acura TL is newer by 7 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura TL (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura TL weights approximately 51 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Acura TL, 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, 2004 Acura TL (324 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm). This means 2004 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Acura TL | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Acura | Pontiac |
Model | TL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 270 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 324 Nm | 257 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1579 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |