2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 298 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
