2008 Fiat Grande Punto vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Fiat Grande Punto 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 126 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Grande Punto. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Grande Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 332 kg more than 2008 Fiat Grande Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Grande Punto, 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Grande Punto. (190 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Grande Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Grande Punto | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Grande Punto | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
