1978 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 443 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 700 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 320 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
