2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 61 kg more than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2147 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 104.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 95.3 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 76 L |