2007 Cadillac DTS vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2007 Cadillac DTS is newer by 26 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, 2007 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 96 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, 2007 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2007 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 2007 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1981 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Cadillac DTS | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
Model | DTS | Firebird |
Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4565 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 324 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1542 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 79 L |