1991 Chevrolet SS vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet SS 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 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chevrolet SS (245 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet SS should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet SS (468 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (459 Nm). This means 1991 Chevrolet SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1991 Chevrolet SS has manual transmission. 1991 Chevrolet SS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Chevrolet SS | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | SS | Firebird |
Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5735 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 245 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 468 Nm | 459 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 7.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2750 mm |