2009 Opel Astra vs. 1985 Pontiac Fiero
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Fiero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Fiero would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. (140 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 359 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Pontiac Fiero 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 1985 Pontiac Fiero. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. (220 Nm). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. 1985 Pontiac Fiero has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Pontiac Fiero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1985 Pontiac Fiero | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Fiero |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2380 mm |
