2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 48 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (278 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2750 mm |
