2005 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 225 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Opel Astra | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Firebird |
Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 102 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2750 mm |