1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 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 2,832 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Sunbird (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 265 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (224 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Holden Sunbird | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
Model | Sunbird | Passat |
Year Released | 1976 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2832 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |