2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala 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 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Impala.
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 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 (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Chevrolet Impala | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Impala | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3507 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 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 |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 76 L |