2006 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 106 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Ford Focus | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Focus | Firebird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 147 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |