1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2010 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2010 Volvo XC90 is newer by 29 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, 2010 Volvo XC90 (185 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 613 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Volvo XC90 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, 2010 Volvo XC90 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, 2010 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 2010 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volvo |
| Model | Firebird | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5012 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 324 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 80 L |
