2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 8 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 23 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 Audi A3 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. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
