1998 Opel Astra vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 27 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 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 330 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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. 1971 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 108 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
