2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 21 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, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (168 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1982 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cavalier | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
