Standard model 1979 Firebirds feature a six-cylinder engine that offers a 3.8-inch by 3.4-inch bore and stroke. This engine's displacement is 3.8 liters. The 1979 Firebird Trans Am was fitted with an eight-cylinder engine. This Trans Am's engine offers a 4.35-inch by 3.38-inch bore and stroke and a 6.6-liter displacement. The Firebird features 12 valves while the Trans Am features 16 valves.
The six-cylinder 1979 Firebird offers 115-horsepower output and 184 foot-pounds torque. This vehicle's top speed is 93 miles per hour. The eight-cylinder 1979 Trans Am offers 185 horsepower and 315 foot-pounds torque. This vehicle's top speed is 112 miles per hour.
Curb weight on the 1979 Firebird is 3,256 pounds while curb weight on the 1979 Trans Am is 3,490 pounds. The Firebird features ventilated drum disc brakes while the Trans Am was designed with a servo-assisted, ventilated drum disc brake system.