1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 2005 Holden Astra
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 29 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, 2005 Holden Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Holden Astra weights approximately 245 kg more than 1976 Holden Sunbird. 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, 2005 Holden 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 Holden Sunbird (224 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 2005 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Sunbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2832 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |
