2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Firebird | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5665 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
