2001 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 23 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 425 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Astro | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Astro | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2750 mm |
