2008 BMW M5 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 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 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 302 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 BMW M5 (520 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 BMW M5 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 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M5 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M5 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4999 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 520 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |