2006 Opel Astra vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 248 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 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Firebird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1364 cc | 3352 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |