1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 32 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 184 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Sunbird | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2832 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2710 mm |
