2006 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 27 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 2 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 175 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 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, 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1979 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 | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Firebird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 79 L |