1991 Mazda 323 vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 660 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 1970 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 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 |
