1986 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP) has 227 more horse power than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 780 kg more than 1986 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Fiesta | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2570 mm |
