2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 31 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (257 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 220 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
Model | Spider | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3195 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 257 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 322 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2750 mm |