2008 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP) has 66 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 679 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan Pathfinder is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder (391 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Pathfinder | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Pathfinder | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2184 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
