2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Dodge Caravan is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 345 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2001 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, 2001 Dodge Caravan (313 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Dodge Caravan | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Caravan | Firebird |
Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2499 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 313 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |