1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. (335 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 350 kg more than 1976 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SL | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
