1996 Peugeot 306 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Peugeot 306 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 Peugeot 306 (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Peugeot 306 should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 256 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 306.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Peugeot 306, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 306. (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 306.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 306 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Peugeot | Pontiac |
| Model | 306 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1214 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2750 mm |
