2009 Saturn Aura vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Saturn Aura is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Aura (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 300 kg more than 2009 Saturn Aura.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Aura. (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Aura.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Saturn Aura | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Saturn | Pontiac |
Model | Aura | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3563 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 340 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |