2002 Vauxhall Vectra vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 24 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 144 kg more than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. 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, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra, 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 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Vauxhall Vectra | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Pontiac |
| Model | Vectra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
