1983 Mini MK V vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1983 Mini MK V is newer by 5 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 117 more horse power than 1983 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1983 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 971 kg more than 1983 Mini MK V. 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, 1983 Mini MK V, 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 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mini MK V | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mini | Pontiac |
| Model | MK V | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2750 mm |
