2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (185 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 355 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (434 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 6598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 110.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 7.9:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
