1985 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 23 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 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 77 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra.
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, 2008 Saturn 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saturn |
| Model | Firebird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2838 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 46 L |
