2006 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (185 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1972 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (434 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Impala. (328 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Impala | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Impala | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3884 cc | 6598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 328 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 76 L |
