2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 1986 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Dodge Stratus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Stratus (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (140 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 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 | 1986 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Stratus | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
