2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP) has 139 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 581 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Pontiac Firebird | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Passat |
Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 198 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 305 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |