2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 30 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2001 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
