2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (261 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 267 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
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 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Cobalt | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 261 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 353 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |