1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 175 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |
