2008 Chrysler Pacifica vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica (253 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler Pacifica weights approximately 219 kg more than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica, 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, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica (356 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler Pacifica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler Pacifica | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | Pacifica | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 356 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 76 L |
