1996 Lancia Kappa vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 1996 Lancia Kappa is newer by 18 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lancia Kappa (201 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 365 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, 1996 Lancia Kappa, 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, 1996 Lancia Kappa (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 1978 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 1996 Lancia Kappa has manual transmission. 1996 Lancia Kappa 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:
| 1996 Lancia Kappa | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Lancia | Holden |
| Model | Kappa | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
