2008 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 BMW X3 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | X3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 54 L |
