2012 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 68 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. 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, 2012 Audi A3, 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 (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2570 mm |
