1989 Ford Probe vs. 1991 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 3,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 140 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 95 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe.
Because 1991 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 1991 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe, 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, 1991 Pontiac Firebird (244 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1991 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Probe | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3128 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
