1973 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 37 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 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 857 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat, 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Pontiac Firebird | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7467 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2720 mm |
