2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 353 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Firebird. 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 1999 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 54 L |
