2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1360 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | C | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3790 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2750 mm |