1998 Mazda 121 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 551 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 121 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 121 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1242 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 324 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1542 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2750 mm |