1980 Ford Escort vs. 1983 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1983 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Pontiac Firebird (134 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort.
Because 1983 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 1983 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, 1983 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 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 | 1983 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
