1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 526 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda RX-7 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. 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 (210 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-7 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 210 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1586 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 76 L |