1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 1984 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Dodge Dakota is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 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, 1984 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1984 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 1984 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Dakota | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2580 mm |
