1986 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 1986 Mitsubishi Starion is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 480 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1986 Mitsubishi Starion has manual transmission. 1986 Mitsubishi Starion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications: