2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1978 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 1978 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Caliber | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Caliber | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
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 | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |