1999 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 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, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 84 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 1999 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. Let's talk about torque, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Malibu | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2750 mm |
