1989 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 11 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 1989 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 571 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. 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, 1989 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Escort | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Escort | Firebird |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2750 mm |