2005 Buick Terraza vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Buick Terraza is newer by 24 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Buick Terraza weights approximately 412 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2005 Buick Terraza, 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 (459 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Buick Terraza. (298 Nm). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Buick Terraza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Buick Terraza | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | Terraza | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2028 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 79 L |
