2008 Opel Vectra vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Opel Vectra. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 165 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1997 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Opel Vectra | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Vectra | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2958 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 370 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |