2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 180 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | New Beetle | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 108 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
