2005 Chevrolet Spark vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Spark 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 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 94 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. (51 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 766 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. 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, 2005 Chevrolet Spark, 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 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. (69 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Spark | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Spark | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 5012 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 776 kg | 1542 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 79 L |
