1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 1061 kg more than 1942 Fiat 500. 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.
Compare all specifications:
1942 Fiat 500 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
Model | 500 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1942 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 567 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 14 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2750 mm |