1998 Ford Contour vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 174 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 1970 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 1970 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour, 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, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1970 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Contour | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1970 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |