1996 Opel Astra vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 435 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Opel Astra | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1799 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |