2005 GMC Safari vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 GMC Safari 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 GMC Safari (187 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 GMC Safari weights approximately 289 kg more than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 GMC Safari | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Safari | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Van | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.1 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1894 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2750 mm |
