2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 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 170 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 396 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | New Beetle | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
