1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird 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 31 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 142 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3. 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, 2010 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
| Model | Firebird | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
