1988 Lada Samara vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1988 Lada Samara is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 530 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lada Samara, 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. 1976 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1988 Lada Samara has manual transmission. 1988 Lada Samara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lada | Pontiac |
| Model | Samara | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 108 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2750 mm |
