2009 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka 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 78 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 641 kg more than 2009 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Ka, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Ka | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Ka | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 68 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |