1997 Saturn SL vs. 1976 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 1997 Saturn SL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (97 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL.
Because 1976 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 1976 Holden Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL, 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, 1997 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Holden Sunbird. 1976 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 1997 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1997 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Holden Sunbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saturn SL | 1976 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Saturn | Holden |
| Model | SL | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
