2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Dodge Stratus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 145 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 216 kg more than 2002 Dodge Stratus.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus, 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Stratus.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Dodge Stratus | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Stratus | Firebird |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 214 Nm | 324 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 88.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 76 L |