1978 Nissan Cherry vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Nissan Cherry is newer by 5 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 265 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 570 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. 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, 1978 Nissan Cherry, 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 1978 Nissan Cherry has manual transmission. 1978 Nissan Cherry 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:
| 1978 Nissan Cherry | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Cherry | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2750 mm |
