1996 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 45 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (155 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 199 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3, 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Pontiac Firebird | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
| Model | Firebird | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 155 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
