1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1978 Simca Horizon
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Simca Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Simca Horizon would be higher. At 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (58 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 725 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. 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, 1978 Simca Horizon, 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 (454 Nm) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (89 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 1978 Simca Horizon | |
| Make | Pontiac | Simca |
| Model | Firebird | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5747 cc | 1118 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 454 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2530 mm |
