2008 Opel Astra vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 366 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 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 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1363 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.4 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.6 mm | 95.3 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 | 1230 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 76 L |
