1980 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 701 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort, 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, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Ford Escort | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Escort | Firebird |
Year Released | 1980 | 1976 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 76 L |