2005 Dodge Neon vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Dodge Neon is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Neon. (230 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 281 kg more than 2005 Dodge Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Neon, 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Neon. (339 Nm). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Neon | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Neon | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 76 L |
