2009 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban (352 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 604 kg more than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban 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 Chevrolet Suburban (518 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Suburban | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Suburban | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5966 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 352 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 518 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5660 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 148 L | 76 L |
