2009 Ford Focus vs. 1976 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 33 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, 2009 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (108 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 209 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
Because 1976 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 1976 Holden Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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, 1976 Holden Sunbird (259 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (132 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 1976 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus 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:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1976 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Focus | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2590 mm |
