1974 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 120 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (279 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Pontiac Firebird | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2770 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 279 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2720 mm |