2009 Nissan Sentra vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Nissan Sentra 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 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Sentra. (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 138 kg more than 2009 Nissan Sentra. 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 Nissan Sentra, 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 (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Sentra. (233 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Sentra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Sentra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
