1985 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 156 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire.
Because 1985 Pontiac Firebird 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 1985 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1985 Pontiac Firebird 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:
| 1985 Pontiac Firebird | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2827 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 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 | 1356 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
