1994 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1986 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1986 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 1986 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1986 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cavalier | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
