1998 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 210 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra.
Because 1978 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 1978 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. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Opel Astra | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |