1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 650 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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. 1980 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2750 mm |
