2009 Acura TL vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Acura TL is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura TL weights approximately 267 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL, 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura TL. (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura TL.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Acura TL | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Acura | Pontiac |
Model | TL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3471 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 280 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 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 | 1852 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2750 mm |