2008 Chevrolet Spark vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Spark 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (51 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 809 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. 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 Chevrolet Spark, 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (70 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Spark | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Spark | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 146 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 776 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2750 mm |
