2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 333 kg more than 2006 Nissan 350Z.
Because 1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z, 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan 350Z. (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan 350Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | 350Z | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 4942 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1252 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2750 mm |
