2001 Opel Vectra vs. 2002 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 58 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (142 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 190 kg more than 2001 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra, 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, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Vectra | 2002 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Vectra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
