2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1976 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (108 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 253 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1976 Holden Sunbird (259 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 1976 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 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:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1976 Holden Sunbird | |
Make | Mazda | Holden |
Model | RX-8 | Sunbird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3298 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 259 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |