1985 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.
Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2750 mm |
