2009 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1992 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Pontiac Firebird (140 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1992 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 1992 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. Let's talk about torque, 1992 Pontiac Firebird (244 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1992 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | 1992 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Beetle | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3128 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
