1998 Opel Astra vs. 1975 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 170 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 1975 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 1975 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. 1975 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. 1975 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1975 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
