2008 Mini Cooper vs. 1990 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (235 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2008 Mini Cooper. (172 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Mini Cooper.

Because 1990 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 1990 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper, 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, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (447 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mini Cooper. (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1990 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mini Cooper.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mini Cooper 1990 Pontiac Firebird
Make Mini Pontiac
Model Cooper Firebird
Year Released 2008 1990
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 5733 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 172 HP 235 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 447 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 3720 mm 4840 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 76 L