2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 283 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1972 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Cavalier | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2189 cc | 4093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 64 L |