1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 2 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2001 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Dakota | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
