2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 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. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 16 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1980 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 1980 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 1980 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
