1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 741 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Fiesta | Firebird |
Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 5665 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 325 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 475 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1541 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 54 L |