1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 18 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 203 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
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 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | Z3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |