1998 Opel Astra vs. 1990 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (235 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra.
Because 1990 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 1990 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, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (447 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1990 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 | 1990 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
