2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (264 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 188 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6.
Because 1981 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 1981 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 6 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 6 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 5012 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 264 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 324 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1542 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 79 L |