2003 GMC Sierra vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 GMC Sierra 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 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 GMC Sierra (321 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 GMC Sierra weights approximately 665 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 2003 GMC Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 GMC Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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 GMC Sierra (370 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 GMC Sierra | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Sierra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5967 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 79 L |
