2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 34 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 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 241 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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. 1974 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Dakota | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2750 mm |
