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 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 35 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
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 (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 2000 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 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 104.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1631 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 76 L |