2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1986 Holden Astra
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Astra would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 646 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra. 1986 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Firebird | 1986 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Pontiac | Holden |
| Model | Firebird | Astra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5665 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1541 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2420 mm |
