1981 Mazda 121 vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1987 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 121 | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 121 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
