1965 Pontiac Tempest vs. 1998 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 3,522 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Pontiac Tempest (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Pontiac Tempest should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Pontiac Tempest weights approximately 150 kg more than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Pontiac Tempest 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 1965 Pontiac Tempest. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Pontiac Tempest | 1998 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Tempest | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3522 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
