2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 31 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 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 232 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cavalier | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |
