2009 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle, 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Beetle | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 108 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2750 mm |
