1989 Ford Tempo vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Ford Tempo is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 455 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Tempo, 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Tempo | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Tempo | Firebird |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 256 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2750 mm |