1983 Ford Orion vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1983 Ford Orion is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 575 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, 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. 1974 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Orion has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Orion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Orion | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2750 mm |
