1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 2009 Pontiac G6
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G6 is newer by 31 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G6 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac G6 weights approximately 192 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, 2009 Pontiac G6, 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, 2009 Pontiac G6 (341 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 2009 Pontiac G6 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. 2009 Pontiac G6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Holden Sunbird | 2009 Pontiac G6 | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Sunbird | G6 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2860 mm |
