2003 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 22 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Audi A8.
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, 2003 Audi A8, 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Audi | Pontiac |
Model | A8 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 256 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |