2005 Cadillac Catera vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Cadillac Catera is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2005 Cadillac Catera. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Cadillac Catera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 255 kg more than 1971 Pontiac Firebird.
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:
| 2005 Cadillac Catera | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | Catera | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2750 mm |
