2009 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 530 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 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 Chevrolet Tahoe (462 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (454 Nm). This means 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 Tahoe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Tahoe | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 5747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 462 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2810 mm |
