1980 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 400 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, 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. 1980 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Pontiac Firebird | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
