1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 79 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Holden Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Holden Sunbird | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
Model | Sunbird | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1239 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2520 mm |