1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle (340 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 149 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 80 L |
