1983 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Pontiac Firebird (134 HP) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1983 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 1983 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1983 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1983 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Pontiac Firebird | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2827 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 103 HP |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
