2009 Mazda Tribute vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Mazda Tribute is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda Tribute (240 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1989 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 1989 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute, 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 Tribute (302 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda Tribute | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | Tribute | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6550 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
