1995 Dodge Dakota vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 1995 Dodge Dakota is newer by 17 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 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 370 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 1995 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Holden Sunbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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, 1995 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1995 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 1978 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 1995 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1995 Dodge Dakota 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:
| 1995 Dodge Dakota | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Holden |
| Model | Dakota | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2590 mm |
