2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 205 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 6 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2750 mm |
