2009 Acura TL vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Acura TL is newer by 28 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TL (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL, 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura TL. (254 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura TL. 2009 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1981 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Acura TL | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Acura | Pontiac |
Model | TL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3471 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 276 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 324 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |