2006 Opel Astra vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,698 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 116 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 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (461 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.1:1 |
| 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 | 1425 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
