2005 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Dodge Caravan is newer by 27 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 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP) has 105 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Caravan. (180 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 111 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2005 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 76 L |
