1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 177 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Caravan | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |