2008 Opel Astra vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (237 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 203 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1970 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 1970 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1970 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 76 L |
