1996 Hyundai Lantra vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 1996 Hyundai Lantra is newer by 15 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. (87 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 521 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. 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, 1996 Hyundai Lantra, 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. (128 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1996 Hyundai Lantra has manual transmission. 1996 Hyundai Lantra 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:

1996 Hyundai Lantra 1981 Pontiac Firebird
Make Hyundai Pontiac
Model Lantra Firebird
Year Released 1996 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1494 cc 4942 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 87 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 128 Nm 459 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1095 kg 1616 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 5040 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2750 mm