2009 Acura RL vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (300 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL 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, 2009 Acura RL (367 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Acura | Pontiac |
| Model | RL | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 60 L |
