2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 291 kg more than 1976 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1976 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 1976 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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. 1976 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2004 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2004 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 108 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2750 mm |
