1986 Ford Escort vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (168 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 1982 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 1982 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. Let's talk about torque, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
