1999 Opel Meriva vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Opel Meriva is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1999 Opel Meriva. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 24 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva, 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, both vehicles can yield 223 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Meriva | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Meriva | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
