2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1975 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 121 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1975 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1975 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-8 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
