1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1948 Porsche 356
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1948 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1948 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 946 kg more than 1948 Porsche 356. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 1948 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Porsche |
| Model | Firebird | 356 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5012 cc | 1086 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 596 kg |
