1995 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1995 Ford Explorer is newer by 17 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Explorer weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Ford Explorer. (332 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Explorer | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
