2008 Audi A8 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (231 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 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, 2008 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Pontiac Firebird.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A8 1979 Pontiac Firebird
Make Audi Pontiac
Model A8 Firebird
Year Released 2008 1979
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2967 cc 3790 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 231 HP 125 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 3200 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 332 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 8.4:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 243 km/hour 150 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 1605 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 5040 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 79 L