2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1990 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 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 23 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1990 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1990 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
