2004 MG ZS vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 MG ZS is newer by 23 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 MG ZS. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 MG ZS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 487 kg more than 2004 MG ZS. 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, 2004 MG ZS, 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 MG ZS. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 MG ZS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 MG ZS | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | MG | Pontiac |
| Model | ZS | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
