1980 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 29 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 21 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 396 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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 2009 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Polo |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 92.8 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2470 mm |
