1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 2000 Hyundai Sonata

To start off, 2000 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 22 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Hyundai Sonata (134 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 236 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, 2000 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2000 Hyundai Sonata (171 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2000 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Holden Sunbird 2000 Hyundai Sonata
Make Holden Hyundai
Model Sunbird Sonata
Year Released 1978 2000
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1897 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 96 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 157 Nm 171 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1396 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2710 mm