1985 GMC Suburban vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1985 GMC Suburban is newer by 4 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 4,299 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 GMC Suburban (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 GMC Suburban weights approximately 635 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 1985 GMC Suburban 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, 1985 GMC Suburban 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, 1985 GMC Suburban (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1985 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1985 GMC Suburban | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | GMC | Pontiac |
Model | Suburban | Firebird |
Year Released | 1985 | 1981 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4299 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 312 Nm | 256 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2750 mm |