1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 28 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 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (235 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1969 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 145 kg more than 1969 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (421 Nm). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Challenger | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 5747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
