1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 2006 Holden Cruze
To start off, 2006 Holden Cruze is newer by 30 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 175 more horse power than 2006 Holden Cruze. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Holden Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 295 kg more than 2006 Holden Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Holden Cruze is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Holden Sunbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Holden Cruze will offer significantly more control. 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 298 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Holden Cruze. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Holden Cruze. 2006 Holden Cruze 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. 2006 Holden Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 2006 Holden Cruze | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Sunbird | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5044 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 436 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2370 mm |
