1995 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 323 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Opel 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Opel Astra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Firebird |
Year Released | 1995 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |