2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 553 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2002 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 2002 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
