1987 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Pontiac Firebird | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2825 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
