2009 Ford Taurus X vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 Taurus X (263 HP) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 395 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus X is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X will offer significantly more control. 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 Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2009 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus X | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Taurus X | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 58 L |
