1986 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1986 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 1986 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New 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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2827 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
