1987 Ford Fiesta vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1989 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 1989 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1989 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1989 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Fiesta | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Fiesta | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
