2008 Nissan Altima vs. 1986 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (159 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (140 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1986 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 1986 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (220 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Altima | 1986 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Altima | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
