2008 Acura RL vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Acura RL is newer by 27 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 342 kg more than 2008 Acura RL.
Because 2008 Acura RL 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, 2008 Acura RL 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Acura RL. (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Acura RL | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Acura | Pontiac |
Model | RL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3471 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 290 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 347 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1616 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 79 L |