2006 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan (215 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 345 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Grand 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, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan (332 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1847 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 58 L |
