1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1979 Ferrari 312 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 323 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (185 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 1048 kg more than 1979 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. 1972 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1979 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1979 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ferrari | Pontiac |
| Model | 312 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 6598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
