1970 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 245 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2006 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 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Pontiac Firebird | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5792 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 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 | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2510 mm |
