1986 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1986 Ford Taurus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 192 kg more than 1986 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Taurus, 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Ford Taurus | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Taurus | Firebird |
Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2513 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2750 mm |