2001 BMW M3 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 30 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, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. (335 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |
