2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1977 Holden Sunbird

To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1977 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1977 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 194 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.

Because 1977 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 1977 Holden Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus, 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 Ford Taurus (249 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Holden Sunbird. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1977 Holden Sunbird has manual transmission. 1977 Holden Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford Taurus 1977 Holden Sunbird
Make Ford Holden
Model Taurus Sunbird
Year Released 2009 1977
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3496 cc 1897 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 260 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 249 Nm 157 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 966 kg 1160 kg
Vehicle Length 5130 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2590 mm