2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Malibu | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2401 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 79 L |