2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 7,456 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (301 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2008 GMC Sierra. (195 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 GMC Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 465 kg more than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2008 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 GMC Sierra. (353 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 GMC Sierra. 2008 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1972 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1972 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Sierra | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Sierra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4298 cc | 7456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5710 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 64 L |
