1985 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 42 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Pontiac Firebird | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Golf |
Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2827 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 133 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |