2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2009 Cadillac DTS (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | DTS | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
