2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 92 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 324 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. 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 Chevrolet Optra, 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Optra | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 150 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |