1998 Ford Focus vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 412 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2001 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Focus | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 170 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1118 kg | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |