2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro 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 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 168 kg more than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Nitro | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Nitro | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3699 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 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 | 1360 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |