2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer vs. 1999 Pontiac Salsa
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Salsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Salsa would be higher. At 4,159 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer weights approximately 61 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 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 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Salsa, 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 TrailBlazer (374 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (203 Nm). This means 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer has automatic transmission and 1999 Pontiac Salsa has manual transmission. 1999 Pontiac Salsa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer | 1999 Pontiac Salsa | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | TrailBlazer | Salsa |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4159 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 374 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1200 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |
