2001 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Impala (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (168 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1982 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1982 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 1982 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Impala | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Impala | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 60 L |
