1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1980 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 15 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 425 kg more than 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
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. 1980 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III has manual transmission. 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Pontiac |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2750 mm |
