1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 2008 MG ZT
To start off, 2008 MG ZT is newer by 30 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, 2008 MG ZT (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZT weights approximately 465 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, 2008 MG ZT, 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, 2008 MG ZT (215 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Holden Sunbird | 2008 MG ZT | |
| Make | Holden | MG |
| Model | Sunbird | ZT |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| 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 | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2750 mm |
