1986 Nissan Pulsar vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1988 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Pulsar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Pulsar would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Pulsar.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Nissan Pulsar, 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (97 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Pulsar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Nissan Pulsar | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Pulsar | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2580 mm |
