2008 Nissan Versa vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Nissan Versa 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Versa. (123 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Versa weights approximately 935 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
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 Nissan Versa, 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 (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Versa. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Nissan Versa | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
Model | Versa | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |