1980 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1993 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 385 kg more than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Volkswagen Passat, 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. 1980 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1993 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1993 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Pontiac Firebird | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
