2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 32 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (168 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (220 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caliber | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |
