1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 15 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 2. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 482 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2. 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, 2012 Mazda 2, 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 (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 2. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
| Model | Firebird | 2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3353 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3150 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 | 1528 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2489 mm |
