1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Ferrari 312 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 985 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 312.
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 Ferrari 312 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ferrari | Pontiac |
| Model | 312 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2750 mm |
