1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1987 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 1987 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1987 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.6 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
