2009 Nissan Versa vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 80 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Versa. (120 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 60 kg more than 2009 Nissan Versa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa, 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Versa. (127 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Versa | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Versa | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 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 | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |
