1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 33 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 50 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 345 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, 2009 Opel 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 (436 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Sunbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5044 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 436 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |
