2005 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 339 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Golf | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Golf | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1257 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
