2005 Kia Optima vs. 2000 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2000 Pontiac Firebird. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2000 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 140 kg more than 2000 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Pontiac Firebird. (203 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2000 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Optima | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
