2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2000 Caterham 7. (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 990 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1971 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Caterham | Pontiac |
| Model | 7 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2750 mm |
