1980 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 18 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 77 kg more than 1998 Pontiac Firebird.
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. 1980 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1998 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1998 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 147 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |
