2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 325 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 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 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |