1970 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 293 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Pontiac Firebird | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1970 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5792 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1292 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2470 mm |