1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1963 Pontiac Tempest
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 5,341 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Pontiac Tempest (212 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Pontiac Tempest should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 255 kg more than 1963 Pontiac Tempest.
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. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1963 Pontiac Tempest has manual transmission. 1963 Pontiac Tempest will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 1963 Pontiac Tempest | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Tempest |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 5341 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2930 mm |
