1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1968 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1968 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 6,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP) has 139 more horse power than 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (146 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 480 kg more than 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1968 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Pontiac |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 6545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 285 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2750 mm |
