2008 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 464 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1981 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 1981 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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 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 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5012 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1078 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 79 L |
