1986 Cadillac DeVille vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 1986 Cadillac DeVille is newer by 1 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 4,087 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Cadillac DeVille is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1986 Cadillac DeVille. (129 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Cadillac DeVille. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Cadillac DeVille weights approximately 178 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.

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, 1986 Cadillac DeVille, 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 Cadillac DeVille (271 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1986 Cadillac DeVille will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 1986 Cadillac DeVille has automatic transmission and 1985 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1985 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Cadillac DeVille will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Cadillac DeVille 1985 Pontiac Firebird
Make Cadillac Pontiac
Model DeVille Firebird
Year Released 1986 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4087 cc 2838 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 129 HP 135 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 223 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1540 kg 1362 kg
Vehicle Length 4960 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2570 mm