1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1972 Ford Gran Torino is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (173 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino.
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:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Gran Torino | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 4091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2750 mm |
