2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 290 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS (701 Nm) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (454 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | CLS | Firebird |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 5747 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 469 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 701 Nm | 454 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2810 mm |