1948 Jaguar XK vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1973 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1948 Jaguar XK. (160 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1948 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 155 kg more than 1948 Jaguar XK. 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1948 Jaguar XK has manual transmission. 1948 Jaguar XK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Jaguar XK | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Jaguar | Pontiac |
| Model | XK | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2750 mm |
