1999 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 355 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Pontiac Firebird | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5700 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 454 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1586 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
