1986 Buick Electra vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1987 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Buick Electra (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1987 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 1987 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Buick Electra, 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, 1986 Buick Electra (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1986 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Buick Electra | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | Electra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2580 mm |
