2007 Mazda CX-9 vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2007 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda CX-9 (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2007 Mazda CX-9 (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. 2007 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda CX-9 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | CX-9 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
