2003 Pontiac GTO vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Pontiac GTO is newer by 30 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, 2003 Pontiac GTO (350 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (335 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 240 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Pontiac GTO | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | GTO | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5665 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
