2009 Volkswagen T5 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 714 kg more than 1971 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen T5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen T5 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | T5 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2459 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2310 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
