2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 43 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2001 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
