1961 Porsche 356 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (135 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 816 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1961 Porsche 356 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Porsche | Pontiac |
| Model | 356 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 76 L |
