2009 Jeep Compass vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Jeep Compass 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, 2009 Jeep Compass (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Compass should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Jeep Compass.
Because 2009 Jeep Compass 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 Jeep Compass 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Jeep Compass. (224 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Jeep Compass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Jeep Compass | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Jeep | Pontiac |
| Model | Compass | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1393 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
