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 7,456 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (301 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 378 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Let's talk about torque, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm) has 181 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 7456 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 239 HP 301 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 382 Nm 563 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.4:1 8.4:1
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1298 kg 1676 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 64 L