1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra 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 4,143 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Sunbird (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 73 kg more than 1976 Holden Sunbird.
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, 2008 Saturn 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 (325 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Saturn |
| Model | Sunbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4143 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |
