2009 Ford Escape vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Ford Escape. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 574 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Escape. (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Escape. 2009 Ford Escape has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Escape | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Escape | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 232 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |