1999 Mazda 323 vs. 2000 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2000 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 393 kg more than 1999 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 323 | 2000 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
