2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 457 kg more than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 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. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Explorer | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4605 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 382 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 76.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1625 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |