1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 390 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7. 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. 1973 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1983 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1983 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-7 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2750 mm |
