1979 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix is newer by 4 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 505 kg more than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. 1979 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1983 Pontiac Phoenix has manual transmission. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Pontiac Firebird | 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | |
Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
Model | Firebird | Phoenix |
Year Released | 1979 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2474 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2670 mm |