2012 Chevrolet Cruze vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 34 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 1978 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Holden Sunbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Cruze | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4597 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1788 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1476 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2685 mm | 2590 mm |
