1986 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 710 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Volkswagen Jetta | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
Model | Jetta | Firebird |
Year Released | 1986 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1271 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 158 HP |
Torque | 96 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2750 mm |