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 (200 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP) 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. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Firebird.
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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 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. 2001 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3791 cc |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 181 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |