2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 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 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 598 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. 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 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Audi A3 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 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Audi | Pontiac |
Model | A3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3352 cc |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |