2004 Nissan Xterra vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Nissan Xterra 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Xterra. (180 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 259 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2004 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Xterra. (274 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Xterra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Xterra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3278 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 274 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 58 L |
