1987 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 25 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 11 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (122 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Pontiac | Chevrolet |
| Model | Firebird | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2825 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11:00 |
| 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 | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
