2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 489 kg more than 1976 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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. 1976 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2750 mm |
