1972 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2011 Audi S3
To start off, 2011 Audi S3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 15 kg more than 2011 Audi S3.
Because 2011 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Pontiac Firebird | 2011 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Audi |
| Model | Firebird | S3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
