2011 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 40 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 174 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
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 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Mazda RX-8 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2011 | 1971 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1300 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 212 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 215 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 Weight | 1411 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1341 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2703 mm | 2750 mm |