1987 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Pontiac Firebird | 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Pontiac | Chevrolet |
| Model | Firebird | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2825 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 57 L |
