2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 4092 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |