2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 152 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (311 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 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 | 1613 kg | 1461 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 58 L |
