1992 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1992 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 323. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 395 kg more than 1992 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Mazda 323 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 will offer significantly more control. 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 (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 323. (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 323. 1979 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1992 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1992 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 323 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2750 mm |
