2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 275 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. 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 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Alfa Romeo 147 1997 Pontiac Firebird
Make Alfa Romeo Pontiac
Model 147 Firebird
Year Released 2005 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 3785 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 118 HP 198 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 305 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1265 kg 1540 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1900 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 76 L