2002 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 86 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2008 Saturn 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, 2002 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 2002 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saturn |
| Model | Firebird | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5700 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1199 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
