2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 120 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 7.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1625 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |