2001 Mazda 6 vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Mazda 6 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 43 kg more than 2001 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 6, 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, 2001 Mazda 6 (311 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 6 | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 6 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
