1996 BMW M3 vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1970 Pontiac Firebird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1970 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 1970 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 7467 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 335 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 104.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 108 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |