1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2004 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 391 kg more than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Vibe will offer significantly more control. 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2004 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 | 2004 Pontiac Vibe | |
Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
Model | Firebird | Vibe |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 122 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 459 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 79.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 91 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1616 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 45 L |