1974 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 147 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mazda RX-4 | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-4 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2398 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1257 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |