1978 Pontiac Sunbird vs. 1979 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 1979 Toyota Tercel is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Sunbird would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Sunbird weights approximately 425 kg more than 1979 Toyota Tercel.
Because 1978 Pontiac 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 Pontiac Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Toyota Tercel, 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. 1979 Toyota Tercel has automatic transmission and 1978 Pontiac Sunbird has manual transmission. 1978 Pontiac Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Toyota Tercel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Pontiac Sunbird | 1979 Toyota Tercel | |
Make | Pontiac | Toyota |
Model | Sunbird | Tercel |
Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 0 HP |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |