2009 Acura RL vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 12 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Acura RL. (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura RL. (367 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura RL. 2009 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Acura RL | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Acura | Pontiac |
Model | RL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3664 cc | 5747 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 301 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 367 Nm | 454 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2810 mm |