1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf 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 128 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 605 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (82 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Firebird | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3785 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 198 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 82 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1620 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 45 L |