1959 Ford 17M vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1980 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 17M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 17M would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 470 kg more than 1959 Ford 17M.
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:
| 1959 Ford 17M | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | 17M | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
