1985 Nissan Pulsar vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Pulsar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Pulsar would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Pulsar. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Pulsar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 661 kg more than 1985 Nissan Pulsar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Nissan Pulsar, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Pulsar. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Pulsar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Nissan Pulsar | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Pulsar | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1268 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2570 mm |
