2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (319 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 279 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Express.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Express (499 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Express | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Express | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Van | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5999 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 319 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 499 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 12 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 76 L |