2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport weights approximately 224 kg more than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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 Trans Sport (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport has automatic transmission and 1998 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1998 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Trans Sport | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 3352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2570 mm |
