2005 Saturn L vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Saturn L is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (182 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 2 kg more than 2005 Saturn L.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn L. (258 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn L | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Saturn | Pontiac |
| Model | L | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1468 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
