2005 Opel Meriva vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2005 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 221 kg more than 2005 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Meriva, 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Meriva | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Meriva | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 76 L |
