2009 Ford Focus vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 259 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Focus | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 105.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 106.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1491 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 76 L |
