2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (182 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 65 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (231 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | Spider | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
