2009 Mazda 2 vs. 1981 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac 1000.
Because 1981 Pontiac 1000 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 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2, 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, 2009 Mazda 2 (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 1981 Pontiac 1000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 2 | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
