1991 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Pontiac Firebird (140 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 179 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1991 Pontiac Firebird (244 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1991 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Pontiac Firebird | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3128 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |