2001 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Impala 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 5,013 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (190 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 98 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 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 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (325 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. 2001 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1985 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1985 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Chevrolet Impala | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Impala | Firebird |
Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5013 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 190 HP |
Torque | 305 Nm | 325 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1474 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |