2009 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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 6,161 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1081 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac Escalade is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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 Escalade (565 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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 Cadillac Escalade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac Escalade | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
Model | Escalade | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6161 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 403 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 565 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2609 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |