2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 334 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 158 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |