2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max 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 159 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 25 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | S-Max | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
