1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1974 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Dodge Challenger (351 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (296 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 125 kg more than 1969 Dodge Challenger.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (529 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Challenger | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6974 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 351 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 76 L |
