1973 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 Scion xD
To start off, 2012 Scion xD is newer by 39 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 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2012 Scion xD. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 Scion xD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 405 kg more than 2012 Scion xD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Scion xD, 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion xD. (169 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion xD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 Scion xD | |
| Make | Pontiac | Scion |
| Model | Firebird | xD |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6547 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3929 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1725 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1509 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2461 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 42 L |
