1959 Chevrolet Corvair vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Chevrolet Corvair 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 64 more horse power than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 436 kg more than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. 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 Chevrolet Corvair | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Corvair | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2286 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2750 mm |
