2008 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 181 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Optra | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Optra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
