2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1976 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 1976 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber, 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 Dodge Caliber (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caliber | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |
