2005 Acura TL vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Acura TL is newer by 8 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 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura TL (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura TL weights approximately 85 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, 2005 Acura TL, 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, 2005 Acura TL (323 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm). This means 2005 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2005 Acura TL 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. 2005 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Acura TL | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Acura | Pontiac |
Model | TL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 270 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 323 Nm | 257 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |