2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2012 Ford Focus. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 204 kg more than 2012 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus, 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Focus. (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Focus. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Pontiac | Ford |
| Model | Firebird | Focus |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5665 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1541 kg | 1337 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 47 L |
