2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 350 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (454 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 5747 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 454 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |