2005 Dodge Nitro vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Dodge Nitro 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Dodge Nitro (208 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 363 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 2005 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2005 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Nitro | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Nitro | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3704 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
