1973 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 40 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 197 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 117 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7467 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 104.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 108 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2537 mm |
