I ran across this vintage article which campares the 1970's Firebird vs Cougar vs Challenger RT. Check out how well the Cougar did. 
http://www.pontiacserver.com/ps70_1.html
the article concludes with the authors having split opinions.
Conclusions:
Norbye: The Firebird is my kind of supercar. It gets me quickly from A to B without tiring me at all, and it sure gets attention.
Dunne: I'll go with the Cougar. It has the best brakes, the best ride, excellent power, and is a first-class turnpike cruiser.
http://www.pontiacserver.com/ps70_1.html
the article concludes with the authors having split opinions.
Conclusions:
Norbye: The Firebird is my kind of supercar. It gets me quickly from A to B without tiring me at all, and it sure gets attention.
Dunne: I'll go with the Cougar. It has the best brakes, the best ride, excellent power, and is a first-class turnpike cruiser.