2001 Ford Cougar vs. 1990 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2001 Ford Cougar is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (235 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2001 Ford Cougar. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Cougar.

Because 1990 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 1990 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Cougar, 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, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (447 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Cougar. (298 Nm). This means 1990 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Cougar.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Ford Cougar 1990 Pontiac Firebird
Make Ford Pontiac
Model Cougar Firebird
Year Released 2001 1990
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1999 cc 5733 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 168 HP 235 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 447 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 8.5:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4840 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2570 mm