2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 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 6 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 290 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6.
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 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, 2008 Mazda 6 (267 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 6 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2968 cc | 4092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2750 mm |
