2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (257 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 237 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 1996 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (420 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm). This means 1996 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 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2570 mm |
