1986 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 592 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 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 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 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Escort | Firebird |
Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1751 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 110 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |