2011 Hyundai Tucson vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2011 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 32 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Tucson (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird.

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, 2011 Hyundai Tucson, 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 (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Hyundai Tucson. (198 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Hyundai Tucson.

Compare all specifications:

2011 Hyundai Tucson 1979 Pontiac Firebird
Make Hyundai Pontiac
Model Tucson Firebird
Year Released 2011 1979
Body Type SUV Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2000 cc 3790 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 165 HP 125 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 3200 RPM
Torque 198 Nm 332 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 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 Length 4399 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1821 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1656 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2639 mm 2750 mm