2008 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,199 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 165 kg more than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Cadillac Escalade is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac Escalade 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 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac Escalade | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | Escalade | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6199 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 403 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 565 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5670 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1920 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 64 L |
