1998 Ford Taurus vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Taurus | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
