2003 Proton 400 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 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 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 606 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Proton 400, 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Proton 400 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Proton | Pontiac |
| Model | 400 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2750 mm |
