1974 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1974 Chrysler Valiant is newer by 2 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 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (185 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 249 kg more than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (434 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chrysler Valiant | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | Valiant | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 6598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2750 mm |
