2006 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2006 Buick LaCrosse 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 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 408 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, 2006 Buick LaCrosse, 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Buick LaCrosse. (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Buick LaCrosse.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Buick LaCrosse 1981 Pontiac Firebird
Make Buick Pontiac
Model LaCrosse Firebird
Year Released 2006 1981
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3786 cc 5012 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 145 HP
Torque 312 Nm 324 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 95 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 88.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.4:1 8.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1950 kg 1542 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 5040 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 79 L


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]