1996 Mitsubishi Magna vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Magna (141 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 12 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Magna. (205 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Magna.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Magna | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Pontiac |
| Model | Magna | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
