1973 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2009 Suzuki XL7
To start off, 2009 Suzuki XL7 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki XL7 (252 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki XL7 should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Suzuki XL7.
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, 2009 Suzuki XL7, 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, 2009 Suzuki XL7 (330 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki XL7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Pontiac Firebird | 2009 Suzuki XL7 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Suzuki |
| Model | Firebird | XL7 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2860 mm |
