2003 Jaguar X-Type vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2003 Jaguar X-Type is newer by 25 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 1 more horse power than 2003 Jaguar X-Type. (157 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Jaguar X-Type. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 86 kg more than 2003 Jaguar X-Type. 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, 2003 Jaguar X-Type, 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 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Jaguar X-Type. (196 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Jaguar X-Type.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Jaguar X-Type 1978 Pontiac Firebird
Make Jaguar Pontiac
Model X-Type Firebird
Year Released 2003 1978
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2099 cc 5700 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 157 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 196 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 2000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1510 kg 1596 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 76 L