2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 12 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 243 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2008 Dodge Caliber, 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Caliber | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Caliber | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 170 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 58 L |