2008 Nissan Xterra vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 800 kg more than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. 1979 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Xterra | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Xterra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
