2004 Nissan Altima vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Altima. (170 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 132 kg more than 2004 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Altima. (237 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Altima | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1409 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 54 L |
