2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 257 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | A | Firebird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1698 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |