1998 Proton 400 vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Proton 400 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1998 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 474 kg more than 1998 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Proton 400, 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Proton | Pontiac |
| Model | 400 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2750 mm |
