2008 Toyota Avensis vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2008 Toyota Avensis 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Avensis. (148 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 132 kg more than 2008 Toyota Avensis. 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 Toyota Avensis, 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 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Avensis. (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Avensis.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Toyota Avensis 1978 Pontiac Firebird
Make Toyota Pontiac
Model Avensis Firebird
Year Released 2008 1978
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2231 cc 5700 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 3600 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1464 kg 1596 kg
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 76 L