1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 35 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 252 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 1978 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Holden Sunbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Holden Sunbird | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunbird | GTI |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2578 mm |
