2005 Opel Vectra vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 145 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 332 kg more than 2005 Opel Vectra.
Because 1981 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Vectra, 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Vectra. (316 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Vectra | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Vectra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 79 L |
