1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1969 Subaru FF-1

To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Subaru FF-1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Subaru FF-1 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 93 more horse power than 1969 Subaru FF-1. (52 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1969 Subaru FF-1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 847 kg more than 1969 Subaru FF-1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Subaru FF-1, 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 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Subaru FF-1. (85 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Subaru FF-1.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Pontiac Firebird 1969 Subaru FF-1
Make Pontiac Subaru
Model Firebird FF-1
Year Released 1981 1969
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5012 cc 1088 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 145 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 324 Nm 85 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1542 kg 695 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 3940 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1490 mm
Vehicle Height 1260 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 79 L 64 L