1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 164 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 108 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |
