1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 46 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. 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:
1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Bel Air | Firebird |
Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4343 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2750 mm |