2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS 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 Cadillac CTS (304 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 133 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 Cadillac CTS 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 Cadillac CTS 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (370 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1999 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1999 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | CTS | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 304 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 58 L |
