2001 Ford Fiesta vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2001 Ford Fiesta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Fiesta.

Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Fiesta.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Ford Fiesta 1988 Pontiac Firebird
Make Ford Pontiac
Model Fiesta Firebird
Year Released 2001 1988
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1298 cc 2827 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 133 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 102 Nm 224 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74 mm 88.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.5 mm 75.9 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 3920 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 60 L