2003 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1121 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 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Holden Sunbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Phaeton | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2281 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2590 mm |
