2001 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 490 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Polo, 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. 1976 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Polo | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Polo | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
