2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1983 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Pontiac Firebird (134 HP) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1983 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 1983 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1983 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
