1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2005 Pontiac Vibe

To start off, 2005 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 24 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, 2005 Pontiac Vibe (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 285 kg more than 2005 Pontiac Vibe.

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, 2005 Pontiac Vibe, 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) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Pontiac Vibe. (172 Nm). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Pontiac Vibe.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Pontiac Firebird 2005 Pontiac Vibe
Make Pontiac Pontiac
Model Firebird Vibe
Year Released 1981 2005
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5012 cc 1803 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 145 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 324 Nm 172 Nm
Engine Bore Size 95 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.4 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 11.5:1
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 1257 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 49 L


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]