2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 225 kg more than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro 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. Let's talk about torque, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Nitro | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3699 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2750 mm |
