1999 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 147 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 630 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Pontiac Firebird | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Golf |
Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3785 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 305 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 23.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 40 L |