2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 433 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (325 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1973 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
