2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1983 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (175 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Firebird. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1983 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 1983 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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 Grand Caravan (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1983 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3299 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
