2011 Opel Astra vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (138 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 318 kg more than 2011 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Opel Astra | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 76 L |
