1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 64 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1970 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2750 mm |
