1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 228 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2004 Renault Megane, 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Pontiac Firebird | 2004 Renault Megane | |
Make | Pontiac | Renault |
Model | Firebird | Megane |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5012 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 324 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1770 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 60 L |