1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Nissan Maxima 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 240 kg more than 1996 Nissan Maxima. 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 Nissan Maxima, 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Nissan Maxima | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
Model | Maxima | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |