2006 BMW M5 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 BMW M5 is newer by 25 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, 2006 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M5 weights approximately 213 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 2006 BMW M5 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, 2006 BMW M5 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, 2006 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW M5 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M5 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4998 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 519 Nm | 324 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1542 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |