2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 336 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 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1461 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |