1996 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 118 kg more than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 332 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |