2005 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Dodge Caravan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 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 170 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
