1985 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 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 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 19 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Pontiac Firebird | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Jetta |
Year Released | 1985 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2838 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1381 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |