2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,645 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (335 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 548 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300, 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 Chrysler 300 (525 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1985 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1985 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | 300 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5645 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
