2009 Chevrolet Aveo vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Aveo 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Aveo (104 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Aveo should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Aveo weights approximately 1225 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 Chevrolet Aveo, 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, 1978 Holden Sunbird (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Aveo. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Aveo. 2009 Chevrolet Aveo has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden Sunbird has manual transmission. 1978 Holden Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Aveo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Aveo | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Aveo | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2590 mm |
