2009 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 30 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 566 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Audi | Pontiac |
Model | A3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |