1996 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1963 Pontiac Tempest
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 3,524 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1963 Pontiac Tempest. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1963 Pontiac Tempest. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 178 kg more than 1963 Pontiac Tempest. 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 Pontiac Firebird | 1963 Pontiac Tempest | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Tempest |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3353 cc | 3524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1528 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2930 mm |
