2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 30 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 114 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
Model | 159 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |