2008 Pontiac Torrent vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 253 kg more than 2008 Pontiac Torrent.
Because 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent (340 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Pontiac Torrent | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Torrent | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1352 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 79 L |
