2008 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 436 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
Because 2008 Audi A4 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, 2008 Audi A4 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 (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A4 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
