2006 Opel Astra vs. 1975 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 325 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1975 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1975 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1975 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 105.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 106.9 mm |
| 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 | 1425 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 76 L |
