2007 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Impala 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet Impala (217 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Impala. (294 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Chevrolet Impala | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Impala | Firebird |
Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3507 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 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 Length | 5100 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |