2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
