2009 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (171 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 257 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 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Focus | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1283 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
