2003 Holden Astra vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,747 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 520 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (454 Nm) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2810 mm |
