1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2005 Saturn L
To start off, 2005 Saturn L 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Saturn L. (182 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 148 kg more than 2005 Saturn L. 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, 2005 Saturn L, 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 (459 Nm) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn L. (258 Nm). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 2005 Saturn L | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saturn |
| Model | Firebird | L |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 459 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1616 kg | 1468 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 59 L |
