1984 Ford Fiesta vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1984 Ford Fiesta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 821 kg more than 1984 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1984 Ford Fiesta | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Fiesta | Firebird |
Year Released | 1984 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1117 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 83 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 104.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 95.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2750 mm |