2009 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 101 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 Equinox, 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 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Equinox | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2590 mm |
