2005 Ford Ka vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ka. (73 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ka.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ka, 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ka. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Ka | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
