2009 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
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 A4, 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 A4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A4 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1510 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
