2009 Acura TSX vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Acura TSX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TSX (201 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura TSX weights approximately 286 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura TSX, 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura TSX. (231 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura TSX. 2009 Acura TSX has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura TSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura TSX | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Acura | Pontiac |
| Model | TSX | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
