2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 31 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 560 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
Model | 159 | Sunbird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1897 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |