1999 Mercury Sable vs. 1979 Pontiac Sunbird
To start off, 1999 Mercury Sable is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Sunbird would be higher. At 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Sable weights approximately 320 kg more than 1979 Pontiac Sunbird.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Sable, 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. 1999 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 1979 Pontiac Sunbird has manual transmission. 1979 Pontiac Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercury Sable | 1979 Pontiac Sunbird | |
| Make | Mercury | Pontiac |
| Model | Sable | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |
