2005 Kia Spectra vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 298 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Spectra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
