1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1986 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (140 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Firebird. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1986 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-7 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 60 L |
