2008 Opel Astra vs. 2009 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac G8 weights approximately 19 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 2009 Pontiac G8 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 2009 Pontiac G8. 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, 2009 Pontiac G8 (563 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 393 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2009 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | G8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 72 L |
