2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 228 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3790 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |