1999 Holden Astra vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 305 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Holden 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, 1999 Holden Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
