2005 Hyundai Matrix vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Matrix 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 22 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Matrix. (123 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Matrix weights approximately 268 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
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 Hyundai Matrix, 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 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Matrix. (161 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Matrix | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Hyundai | Pontiac |
| Model | Matrix | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1542 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |
