1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 27 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 253 kg more than 2008 Pontiac Torrent.
Because 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (340 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 64 L |
