2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 74 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
Model | Jetta | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1396 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |