2000 Volvo S60 vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird

To start off, 2000 Volvo S60 is newer by 22 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 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 2000 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S60 (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volvo S60 weights approximately 265 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, 2000 Volvo S60, 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, 2000 Volvo S60 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2000 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 1978 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2000 Volvo S60 has manual transmission. 2000 Volvo S60 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:

2000 Volvo S60 1978 Holden Sunbird
Make Volvo Holden
Model S60 Sunbird
Year Released 2000 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2434 cc 1897 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 220 Nm 157 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1425 kg 1160 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2590 mm