1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse (210 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
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 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (290 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mitsubishi | Pontiac |
Model | Eclipse | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 110 HP |
Torque | 290 Nm | 256 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 149 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |