1971 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 185 kg more than 1971 Chrysler Valiant.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler Valiant (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1971 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Valiant | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | Valiant | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3521 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2750 mm |
