2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (285 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
