2005 Dodge Ram vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Dodge Ram 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 5,621 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1054 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 2005 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Dodge Ram (509 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (459 Nm). This means 2005 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Ram | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Ram | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5621 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2670 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 79 L |
