2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 24 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1998 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 3352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 146 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
