2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 388 kg more than 2009 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Fiat Panda 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 Fiat Panda 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Panda | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2570 mm |
