2009 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (518 HP) has 318 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1330 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz CL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | CL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6208 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 518 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 631 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 58 L |