2003 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 175 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Opel Astra | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 76.2 mm |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2750 mm |