2004 Mazda 6 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (144 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 60 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 1972 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 6 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 64 L |
