1999 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 111 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (201 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1999 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1999 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Pontiac Firebird | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Pontiac | Opel |
| Model | Firebird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 52 L |
