2009 GMC Acadia vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 GMC Acadia 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Acadia (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Acadia should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Acadia weights approximately 830 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 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 GMC Acadia, 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, 2009 GMC Acadia (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Acadia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2009 GMC Acadia | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | GMC | Pontiac |
Model | Acadia | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3599 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 256 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2435 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 79 L |