2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Pontiac Firebird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |