1981 Holden Commodore vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 450 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Holden Commodore | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Holden | Pontiac |
Model | Commodore | Firebird |
Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2837 cc | 5747 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 102 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 192 Nm | 454 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |