2001 Chrysler Neon vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Chrysler Neon is newer by 20 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler Neon (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 67 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Neon, 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, 2001 Chrysler Neon (332 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 2001 Chrysler Neon has automatic transmission and 1981 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chrysler Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler Neon | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | Neon | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1609 kg | 1542 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
