1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 61 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | El Camino | Firebird |
Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4400 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 271 Nm | 459 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 7.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1616 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2750 mm |