1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. (105 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 146 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Pontiac |
| Model | Sports Convertible | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2750 mm |
