1998 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (147 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer, 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1998 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Pontiac Firebird | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Pontiac | Ford |
Model | Firebird | Explorer |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3353 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 147 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5006 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2004 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1788 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |