1991 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Dodge Grand 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan. (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 18 kg more than 1991 Dodge Grand 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 Grand 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 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan. (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2750 mm |
