1982 Ford Mustang vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Mustang (225 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Mustang weights approximately 283 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Ford Mustang 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 1982 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1982 Ford Mustang (407 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 1982 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 1982 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1982 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Mustang | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Mustang | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1483 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
