1996 Cadillac Catera vs. 1978 Pontiac Sunbird
To start off, 1996 Cadillac Catera is newer by 18 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 465 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Sunbird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1996 Cadillac Catera 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. 1996 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Cadillac Catera | 1978 Pontiac Sunbird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | Catera | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2470 mm |
