2004 Volvo V40 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Volvo V40 is newer by 26 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V40 (169 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 316 kg more than 2004 Volvo V40.
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, 2004 Volvo V40, 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 (324 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo V40. (240 Nm). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo V40 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volvo | Pontiac |
| Model | V40 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1950 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
