1999 GMC Sonoma vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 GMC Sonoma is newer by 18 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 GMC Sonoma (177 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 GMC Sonoma should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 105 kg more than 1999 GMC Sonoma.
Because 1999 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 GMC Sonoma will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 GMC Sonoma (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1999 GMC Sonoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1999 GMC Sonoma has manual transmission. 1999 GMC Sonoma 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:
| 1999 GMC Sonoma | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonoma | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2750 mm |
