1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1979 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 610 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600. 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:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Abarth | Pontiac |
| Model | 1600 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2750 mm |
