2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 232 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 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:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 159 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |
