2004 Mazda 6 vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (130 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 6 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
