2009 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 22 kg more than 2009 Saab 03-Sep.
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 Saab 03-Sep, 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 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saab 03-Sep. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saab 03-Sep | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Saab | Pontiac |
| Model | 03-Sep | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1574 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 76 L |
