2008 Nissan Versa vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Nissan Versa 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 180 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Versa. (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Versa weights approximately 825 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 Nissan Versa, 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 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Versa. (173 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Versa | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Versa | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
