1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 476 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 121 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
