1991 Cadillac DeVille vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Cadillac DeVille is newer by 10 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Cadillac DeVille (197 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Cadillac DeVille should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Cadillac DeVille weights approximately 68 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1991 Cadillac DeVille, 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, 1991 Cadillac DeVille (373 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1991 Cadillac DeVille will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 1991 Cadillac DeVille has automatic transmission and 1981 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Cadillac DeVille will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Cadillac DeVille | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
Model | DeVille | Firebird |
Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4894 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 373 Nm | 324 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1542 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2750 mm |