2005 Fiat Idea vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Fiat Idea 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Idea. (79 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 383 kg more than 2005 Fiat Idea. 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 Fiat Idea, 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Fiat Idea. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Idea | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Idea | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1366 cc | 3352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
