1986 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1986 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 1986 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Pontiac Firebird | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Pontiac | Acura |
| Model | Firebird | CL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2827 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
