1981 Ford Fairlane vs. 2009 Pontiac G5
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G5 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G5 (155 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fairlane. (124 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 71 kg more than 2009 Pontiac G5.
Because 1981 Ford Fairlane 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 1981 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G5, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Ford Fairlane (296 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac G5. (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac G5. 1981 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2009 Pontiac G5 has manual transmission. 2009 Pontiac G5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fairlane | 2009 Pontiac G5 | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Fairlane | G5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2640 mm |
