2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 232 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (250 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Focus | Firebird |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1752 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |