1996 Ford Taurus vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Taurus weights approximately 393 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2002 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 2002 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Taurus, 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, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Taurus. (312 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Taurus | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Taurus | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3392 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 235 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 312 Nm | 461 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1592 kg | 1199 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |