2005 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 89 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Chevrolet Impala (380 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2005 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Chevrolet Impala | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Impala | Firebird |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3786 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 257 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 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 | 1617 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |