1988 Cadillac DeVille vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 1988 Cadillac DeVille is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. (129 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 45 kg more than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 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 1970 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Cadillac DeVille, 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, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. (271 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Cadillac DeVille.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Cadillac DeVille 1970 Pontiac Firebird
Make Cadillac Pontiac
Model DeVille Firebird
Year Released 1988 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4086 cc 5792 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 129 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1540 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 4960 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2750 mm