1998 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 655 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Pontiac Firebird | 1966 Saab 96 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saab |
| Model | Firebird | 96 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3353 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1528 kg | 873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |
