2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 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 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 263 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
Model | 159 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 5669 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 453 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 99 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |