2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 30 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (346 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 585 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, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Holden |
| Model | Ram | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 346 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2590 mm |
