2003 Ford Focus vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus.
Because 1987 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 1987 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Focus | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
