1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 1977 Simca 1309
To start off, 1977 Simca 1309 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 5,044 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Sunbird (247 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1977 Simca 1309. (87 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 1977 Simca 1309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 185 kg more than 1977 Simca 1309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Sunbird 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 Holden Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Simca 1309, 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 Holden Sunbird (436 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Simca 1309. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Simca 1309. 1977 Simca 1309 has automatic transmission and 1976 Holden Sunbird has manual transmission. 1976 Holden Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Simca 1309 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 1977 Simca 1309 | |
| Make | Holden | Simca |
| Model | Sunbird | 1309 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5044 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 436 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2610 mm |
