1998 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 1989 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 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 | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 121 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2580 mm |
