1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 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 198 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 530 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Golf, 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 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Holden Sunbird | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
Model | Sunbird | Golf |
Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5044 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 436 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2410 mm |