1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 616 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mazda 323, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mazda 323 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 323 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1990 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1720 cc | 6547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 421 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2750 mm |