2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 149 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 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Hyundai | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonata | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
