2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 8 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 (256 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2498 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 256 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 79 L |