1954 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1974 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. (225 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 18 kg more than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ford Thunderbird | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5114 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2750 mm |
