1978 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 405 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Pontiac Firebird | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
Make | Pontiac | Chevrolet |
Model | Firebird | Cavalier |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5700 cc | 2190 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 57 L |