2009 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (222 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 2009 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Focus | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Focus | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2522 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 222 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |