1996 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1983 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (200 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Firebird. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1983 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 1983 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | 1983 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Lumina | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2580 mm |
