2009 Pontiac G6 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G6 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 Pontiac G6 (217 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 264 kg more than 2009 Pontiac G6.
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 Pontiac G6, 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac G6. (294 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac G6.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Pontiac G6 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
Model | G6 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1352 kg | 1616 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 79 L |