2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1976 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 27 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 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (145 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (108 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1976 Holden Sunbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (259 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Holden Sunbird. 1976 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 6 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:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1976 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | 6 | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2590 mm |
