2001 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 16 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 147 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cavalier | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
