1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 24 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 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 350 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, 1997 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |
