2009 BMW X3 vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (228 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 331 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | X3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 58 L |
