1985 Chrysler Laser vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1985 Chrysler Laser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (100 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1985 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 400 kg more than 1985 Chrysler Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Chrysler Laser, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Chrysler Laser | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | Laser | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2750 mm |
