USA vs USA — 1967 vs 1968
| Firebird 400 | Mustang GT/CS (California Special) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 230 hp |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,555 cc | 4,949 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,300 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,851 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 82,560 | 4,118 |
| Original MSRP | $2,781 | $3,100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 for outright capability, or the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Pony Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 versus the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special). Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 230 hp, a 100-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 relies on a V8 OHV with 4,949 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. The Ford Mustang carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 300 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,118 units built, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Firebird's 82,560 examples.