1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 390 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | 131 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2750 mm |
