1981 Chrysler Newport vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1981 Chrysler Newport is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Chrysler Newport (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Chrysler Newport should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chrysler Newport weights approximately 214 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chrysler Newport. (364 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chrysler Newport.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chrysler Newport | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | Newport | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2750 mm |
