2009 Opel Astra vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
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 Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 269 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 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 @ 1950 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| 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 | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
