USA vs USA — 1967 vs 1974
| Firebird 400 | Mustang II King Cobra | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 139 hp |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 250 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,555 cc | 4,942 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 9.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,300 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,451 mm |
| Length | 4,851 mm | 4,521 mm |
| Units Produced | 82,560 | 4,318 |
| Original MSRP | $2,781 | $5,280 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 and 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra stand as two of the most notable Pony Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 139 hp, a 191-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac Firebird uses a V8 OHV (Pontiac 400) displacing 6,555 cc, while the Ford Mustang II relies on a V8 OHV with 4,942 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 9.6 seconds. The Ford Mustang II carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 300 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,318 units built, the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Firebird's 82,560 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.