1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 1997 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1997 Holden Commodore is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 450 kg more than 1978 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, 1997 Holden Commodore (304 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Holden Sunbird | 1997 Holden Commodore | |
Make | Holden | Holden |
Model | Sunbird | Commodore |
Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3789 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2950 mm |