1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,456 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (301 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 571 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1972 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1972 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 323 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 7456 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 301 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 563 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 105.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 106.9 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1676 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |