1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1979 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP) has 228 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 280 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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 (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 1979 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Iltis |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5669 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
