2009 Chevrolet Colorado vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Colorado 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 Chevrolet Colorado (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Colorado should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 281 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Colorado.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Colorado 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 Chevrolet Colorado 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 (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Colorado. (258 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Colorado.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Colorado | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Colorado | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2901 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 79 L |
