2008 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 246 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Focus | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Focus | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1986 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |