1996 Audi A3 vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 456 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |
