1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 605 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 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1980 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 | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 323 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1990 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1720 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 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 | 1585 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 |