1959 Porsche 356 vs. 1975 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1975 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 895 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356. 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 Porsche 356 | 1975 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Porsche | Pontiac |
| Model | 356 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 76 L |
