2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1989 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 1989 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota, 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Dakota | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
