2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 96 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 425 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 2 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
