2011 Volvo XC90 vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 995 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 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Holden Sunbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volvo XC90 | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Volvo | Holden |
| Model | XC90 | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3200 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4808 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1897 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1783 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2590 mm |
