2007 Audi S3 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2007 Audi S3 is newer by 29 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S3 (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 130 kg more than 2007 Audi S3.
Because 2007 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi S3. (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | S3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
