1985 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (79 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 21 kg more than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (173 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Pontiac Firebird | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Pontiac | Vauxhall |
| Model | Firebird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2827 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
