2008 Audi R8 vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Audi R8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (257 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 375 kg more than 2008 Audi R8.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (420 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 1996 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | R8 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
