2008 Nissan Altima vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP) has 70 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 428 kg more than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Because 2002 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 2002 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Altima | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Altima | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 58 L |
