2008 Nissan X-Trail vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Nissan X-Trail 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan X-Trail (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Nissan X-Trail.
Because 2008 Nissan X-Trail 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 Nissan X-Trail 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, 2008 Nissan X-Trail (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan X-Trail has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan X-Trail will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan X-Trail | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | X-Trail | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 149 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 79 L |
