1989 Pontiac Trans Sport vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport is newer by 16 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 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 30 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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, both vehicles can yield 237 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Trans Sport | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 4092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2750 mm |
