1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 329 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
