1989 Dodge Daytona vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Dodge Daytona is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Daytona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Daytona (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (106 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 38 kg more than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Daytona, 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, 1989 Dodge Daytona (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (196 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Daytona | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Daytona | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
