1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 167 kg more than 2008 Subaru Outback.
Because 2008 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback 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 (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Subaru Outback. (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Pontiac | Subaru |
| Model | Firebird | Outback |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5012 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 324 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 64 L |
