2009 Mazda BT-50 vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mazda BT-50 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2009 Mazda BT-50. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda BT-50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 573 kg more than 2009 Mazda BT-50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda BT-50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda BT-50 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 257 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda BT-50 | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | BT-50 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 3352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2570 mm |
