2001 Ford Explorer vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 287 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
