1989 Holden Apollo vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Holden Apollo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1989 Holden Apollo. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Apollo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 391 kg more than 1989 Holden Apollo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Holden Apollo, 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Apollo. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Apollo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Apollo | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Apollo | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
