2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 139 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (278 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Pontiac |
| Model | Eclipse | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
