1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 25 kg more than 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
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. 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Pontiac |
| Model | Cutlass | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 198 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
