2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 199 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |