1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 922 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Pontiac |
| Model | Sprite | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 54 L |
