2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 6 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 5669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
