2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1987 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 1987 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 (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caliber | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
