2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 217 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Ram | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2570 mm |
