1991 Dodge Caravan vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Dodge Caravan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1991 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1991 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 65 kg more than 1991 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Dodge Caravan | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
