1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 685 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. 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:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Porsche |
| Model | Firebird | 356 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
