2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 24 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
Model | 166 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 172 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 385 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |