2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Hyundai | Pontiac |
Model | Sonata | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |