1988 Honda Civic vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1988 Honda Civic is newer by 10 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1988 Honda Civic. (89 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Civic.
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, 1988 Honda Civic, 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 (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Honda Civic | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Honda | Pontiac |
Model | Civic | Firebird |
Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 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 Length | 4240 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |