2006 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 9 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 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 422 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2006 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2006 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Buick LaCrosse | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | LaCrosse | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 146 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
