1959 Saab 95 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1973 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Saab 95. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Saab 95 would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1959 Saab 95. (38 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1959 Saab 95. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 708 kg more than 1959 Saab 95. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Saab 95, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 337 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Saab 95. (84 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Saab 95.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Saab 95 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Saab | Pontiac |
| Model | 95 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 841 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 888 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
