2004 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 60 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 2004 Audi A3 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, 2004 Audi A3 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2004 Audi A3 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. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
