1986 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 10 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 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 540 kg more than 1986 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, 1986 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. 1976 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1976 Pontiac Firebird
Make Ford Pontiac
Model Escort Firebird
Year Released 1986 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 7467 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 335 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 104.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 108 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 10.3:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 151 km/hour 201 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2750 mm


 

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