2004 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 5,326 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (290 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 180 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.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Prix | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5326 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 58 L |
