1982 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 26 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (263 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (106 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 16 kg more than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent, 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 Pontiac Torrent (339 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (196 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 1982 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1982 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2838 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1336 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
