1995 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1995 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Explorer weights approximately 305 kg more than 1981 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, 1995 Ford Explorer (332 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Explorer | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
