1998 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1975 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 398 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1975 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1975 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1975 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cavalier | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |
