2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (106 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 89 kg more than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 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, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (196 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1982 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1982 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1982 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Caliber | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Caliber | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2838 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 196 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1336 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |