2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 86 more horse power than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 137 kg more than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 58 L |
