1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 21 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 10 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra.
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, 1999 Holden 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, 1999 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 1999 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden Sunbird has manual transmission. 1978 Holden Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Holden Sunbird | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Sunbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2610 mm |
