2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (147 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 179 kg more than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
