1998 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 140 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1986 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 318 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
