2009 Saturn Astra vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 190 kg more than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Because 1976 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 1976 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn 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, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Astra | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Saturn | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
