2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (72 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 390 kg more than 2001 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Citroen | Pontiac |
Model | Xsara | Firebird |
Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1360 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 120 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2750 mm |