2009 Nissan Micra vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Nissan Micra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 19 kg more than 2009 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Micra, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Micra | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Micra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1386 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 58 L |
