2002 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 22 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 1 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW M3 | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 324 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 76 L |