2003 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus is newer by 25 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 425 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, 2003 Ford Taurus, 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, 2003 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Taurus | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
Make | Ford | Holden |
Model | Taurus | Sunbird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1897 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2590 mm |