2011 Dodge Caliber vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2011 Dodge Caliber is newer by 33 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Caliber (158 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 206 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, 2011 Dodge Caliber, 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, 2011 Dodge Caliber (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Dodge Caliber | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Holden |
| Model | Caliber | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1366 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4415 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1748 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1534 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2634 mm | 2590 mm |
