1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 396 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Citroen | Pontiac |
Model | Xsara | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2750 mm |