2007 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 10 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet Impala (217 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Chevrolet Impala, 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 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Impala. (294 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Chevrolet Impala. 2007 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2007 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Impala | Firebird |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3507 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |