1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Dodge Dakota is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (106 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 194 kg more than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 196 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Dakota | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
