1997 Mercury Villager vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Mercury Villager is newer by 16 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Villager weights approximately 258 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1997 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercury Villager | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercury | Pontiac |
Model | Villager | Firebird |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2960 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1542 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |