2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 79 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Impala | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3899 cc | 4092 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 233 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 325 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |