1982 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1999 Pontiac Salsa
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Salsa is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (168 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Salsa.
Because 1982 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 1982 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Salsa, 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, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (338 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (203 Nm). This means 1982 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Salsa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Pontiac Firebird | 1999 Pontiac Salsa | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Salsa |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
