2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala 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 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 201 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. 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 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Impala | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3899 cc | 7462 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 233 HP | 296 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 325 Nm | 563 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 76 L |